Avionics Update: Qualcomm, Globalstar demonstrate airborne web technology

Neither company has a product that it intends to put on the market anytime soon, but both Qualcomm and Globalstar are demonstrating a satellite-based airborne Internet link for business jets aboard Qualcomm’s Challenger 601. Both companies one day hope to market such a system, which would provide airborne Internet data connections to aircraft cabins and cockpits at speeds of 128 kbps or higher. Airshow of Tustin, Calif., designed hardware for the system, but certification testing has been put on hold while satellite operator Globalstar plans to file for bankruptcy.